Cover Letters: Top 5 Tips + Free Template!
A cover letter is a must-have in the application process, so we’ve put together a list of our top tips for writing an awesome cover letter!
Tips
1. Format
In terms of format, put your name and contact details, as well as the employer’s name and contact details at the top of the page. Following this, make sure each paragraph is clearly defined and the cover letter in general is structured to show clear opening, middle, and concluding paragraphs.
2. How to address your letter
Address your cover letter to a particular person within the company you are applying for, such as the hiring manager, head of the department you wish to work in, or the contact within human services. Taking the time to track down the correct person’s name shows that you’ve put in the effort and have a good attention to detail.
3. Don’t restate everything
Don’t just re-list everything that you mentioned in your resume. While dot points can be great (see our page on cover letters), the cover letter is a great opportunity to be a bit more personable and go into detail about why you want to work for this particular company, and how you’d be a good fit.
4. Go into detail
The middle paragraphs of the cover letter are where you can go into a bit of detail about your skills and experience relevant to the job in question. Think of a few examples that show how you’ve worked hard and utilised the skills the employer is looking for in their selection criteria, and be sure to tailor them to the job you’re applying for.
5. Be enthusiastic
When you get to the last paragraph, tell the employer of your desire for an interview and reiterate your contact details. If you’re applying for a speculative position, mention that you’ll follow up with a phone call – and make sure you do!
Template
You should also check out The Muse’s great cover letter template, for a sure-fire break down of what to write in each paragraph and the key points to include. This is the template UTS:Careers often recommends and clearly sets out how to write and structure a cover letter, regardless of what position you are applying for!
Featured image courtesy of Pexels
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By Mia Casey
Copywriter
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